Malta’s property market has opened exciting new opportunities for non-EU investors.
In recent years, Malta’s Special Designated Areas (SDAs) have become the most attractive locations for Third Country Nationals (TCNs) seeking safe, profitable, and lifestyle-driven property investments in Europe. These exclusive zones offer freehold ownership, no restrictions on resale, and — most importantly — the right to rent or sublease properties without needing an AIP permit.
That means whether you’re from China, South Africa, India, or the Middle East, you can now own and lease out property in Malta’s best developments — from a luxurious Sliema waterfront apartment to a Gozo penthouse with panoramic sea views.
What Are Malta’s Special Designated Areas (SDAs)?
Special Designated Areas are high-end, self-contained residential complexes offering premium amenities such as 24/7 security, pools, underground parking, gyms, and restaurants. They were created to attract international investment while ensuring a standard of excellence across the island’s luxury property sector.
Some of Malta’s most sought-after SDAs include:
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Tigné Point (Sliema)
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Fort Cambridge (Sliema)
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Portomaso & Mercury Towers (St. Julian’s)
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Pender Gardens (St. Julian’s)
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MIDI Manoel Island
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Tas-Sellum (Mellieħa)
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Madliena Village
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Ta’ Monita Residence (Marsascala)
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Vista Point (Gozo)
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Fort Chambray (Gozo)
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SmartCity Malta (Kalkara)
These developments allow foreign buyers to purchase multiple units, rent them short or long-term, and benefit from simplified legal and taxation processes.
Sub-Leasing & Short-Term Rentals: What TCN Investors Must Know
For properties within SDAs, foreign owners can sublease their property as long as a Tourism Licence (in either Superior or Comfort category) is issued by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA).
This legal framework has made Malta a unique European hub where TCNs can both own and operate income-generating rental properties, fully within the law.
How Casa Rooms Supports International Property Investors
At Casa Rooms, we specialize in professional property management for both short-term (STR) and long-term (LTR) rentals. Whether you’ve just purchased your first SDA apartment or plan to expand your investment portfolio, our team ensures your property performs seamlessly from day one.
Full Support: Casa Rooms collaborates with reputable local law firms to handle all legal and regulatory matters, ensuring your investment remains fully compliant. We also oversee tax, licensing, and operational requirements through our in-house management systems. This means you can focus entirely on your day-to-day life while your property works for you — seamlessly managed from A to Z by Casa Rooms.
We can even help investors sublease properties we already manage on behalf of other landlords, keeping everything in-house — from guest management and cleaning to eco-tax returns and maintenance scheduling.
Why TCNs Are Choosing Malta
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Stable Eurozone economy
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English-speaking legal system
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Strong tourism market supporting STR income
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Attractive tax regime for residents and investors
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Fast access to EU residency through property ownership
With Malta’s SDA policy, investors gain the security of European ownership rights with the flexibility of a global investment model.
Partner With Casa Rooms
Whether you are considering buying or subleasing of an SDA property or already own one and wish to rent or sublease it, Casa Rooms offers a fully integrated platform combining property management, financial reporting, and tenant support across Malta, Gozo, and Sicily.
Start experiencing true peace of mind — your investment deserves a team that manages it like it’s their own.
Visit www.casarooms.com or contact our property management team to discuss how we can help you maximize your return in Malta’s growing SDA market.
